While the takeoff offers interesting Nordic archipelago views on the left, the landing approach on the right provides more dramatic and visually distinctive scenery with Port Phillip Bay, the Dandenong Ranges, and Melbourne's urban landscape. The landing views are more consistently rewarding across the final descent phase.
Flown HEL to MEL? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Helsinki to Melbourne is 9,436 miles (15,185 km), a flight of about 17 hours 20 minutes.
The flight path crosses central Europe (Alps visible from altitude near Switzerland/Austria), the Mediterranean Sea, North Africa (Sahara Desert), the Red Sea, the Arabian Peninsula, the Indian Ocean, and approaches Australia over the Great Australian Bight before reaching Melbourne. Notable midpoint landmarks include the Suez Canal region, the Persian Gulf, and the Indian subcontinent's southern tip.
Great circle distance and headings ›
.jpg?width=600)
Phase by phase
Takeoff from HEL
LEFTLeft side captures the Gulf of Finland and the archipelago east of Helsinki as the aircraft climbs southeastward. You'll see the complex pattern of islands, skerries, and water channels that define Finland's coastal geography during the initial 10-15 minutes of flight.
Landing at MEL
RIGHTRight side offers the best views during approach to Melbourne. You'll see Port Phillip Bay, the Dandenong Ranges to the east, and the urban sprawl of Melbourne's eastern suburbs as the aircraft descends on a westward approach path.
Will your flight be in sunlight?
Pick a date and time in the Sun Map to watch the sun move across your whole flight.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Helsinki Vantaa (HEL) to Melbourne International (MEL)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Helsinki to Melbourne. While the takeoff offers interesting Nordic archipelago views on the left, the landing approach on the right provides more dramatic and visually distinctive scenery with Port Phillip Bay, the Dandenong Ranges, and Melbourne's urban landscape. The landing views are more consistently rewarding across the final descent phase.
What can I see during takeoff from Helsinki Vantaa in Helsinki?
During takeoff from Helsinki Vantaa (HEL), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side captures the Gulf of Finland and the archipelago east of Helsinki as the aircraft climbs southeastward. You'll see the complex pattern of islands, skerries, and water channels that define Finland's coastal geography during the initial 10-15 minutes of flight. Notable sights include: Gulf of Finland, Helsinki archipelago (Suomenlinna visible near departure), Estonian coast across the gulf, Lake Tuusula inland to the northwest.
What can I see when landing at Melbourne International in Melbourne?
When landing at Melbourne International (MEL), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side offers the best views during approach to Melbourne. You'll see Port Phillip Bay, the Dandenong Ranges to the east, and the urban sprawl of Melbourne's eastern suburbs as the aircraft descends on a westward approach path. Notable sights include: Port Phillip Bay, Dandenong Ranges, Yarra River valley, Melbourne CBD skyline.
How long is the flight from Helsinki to Melbourne?
The flight from Helsinki Vantaa (HEL) to Melbourne International (MEL) takes about 17 hours 20 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 9,436 miles (15,185 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Helsinki to Melbourne flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses central Europe (Alps visible from altitude near Switzerland/Austria), the Mediterranean Sea, North Africa (Sahara Desert), the Red Sea, the Arabian Peninsula, the Indian Ocean, and approaches Australia over the Great Australian Bight before reaching Melbourne. Notable midpoint landmarks include the Suez Canal region, the Persian Gulf, and the Indian subcontinent's southern tip.